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Hit-and-run accident leaves woman injured

The driver of a mini-car driving on a roadway at Ishimine in Naha City’s Shuri district shortly before dawn struck a woman making her way through a pedestrian crosswalk, then sped away.

The 78-year-old woman suffered serious injuries, including a fractured pelvis, but authorities say her injuries are not life threatening. Naha City Police immediately began investigating the case as a hit-and-run accident.

Police began their investigation on the basis of traces of tire marks left at the accident scene, then discovered a damaged car when canvassing the area. Within six hours, they had arrested 47-year-old Tetsuro Tatetsu, a company employee from Tomigusuku. They arrested him on charges of negligent driving resulting in injury, and violation of the Road Traffic Law for the violation of rendering aid responsibility.

Tatetsu has admitted to the charges. Police say alcohol was not detected, and does not appear to have been a factor. When police questioned Tatetsu as he returned to his car, Tatetsu confessed.